Javier Hernandez was the victim of a brutal birthday cake ritual when he turned 29 on Thursday.

The former Manchester United striker is currently on international duty with Mexico as they prepare for this summer's Confederations Cup.

Chicharito can be seen in the Mexico dressing room prior to their 3-1 friendly win over Ireland.

Hernandez may have been an unused substitute in the match, but he certainly didn't miss out on his birthday cake.

Little Pea, who has a towel wrapped around his neck, can be seen gearing up for the bizarre birthday gag as he rubs his face anxiously.

"Here we go..." (Image: CEN)

But he needn't have worried about doing the task alone because his teammates were more than happy to help.

As Hernandez began to lower his head, his pals joined in, shoving his face deep into the icing.

SPLAT (Image: CEN)

The Confederations Cup will start on June 17 and end on July 2.

Taking place in the World Cup's host nation a year before the major competition, it brings together the Euro, World Cup, AFC Asian Cup, Copa America, CONCACAF Cup, OFC Nations Cup and Africa Cup of Nations winners.

Russia (hosts), Germany, Australia, Chile, Mexico, New Zealand, Portugal and Cameroon will all be competing this year.